Foster Care – Are there any special programs for adolescents in Foster Care?
Yes. There is a program called LINKS. This program is available to children in foster care who are between the ages of 13 and 21. The LINKS program was developed to help children with like skills and support systems. When children are ages 13 through 15, the focus of the program is on assessment and exposing children to opportunities for building the skills they need in order to be successful in life. The emphasis is on planning ahead and identifying resources. When children are ages 16 through 18, the assessment process continues but more activities and opportunities are available. Each child is assisted with the development of a personal support network. The LINKS program provides financial assistance to enable these young people to participate in special projects, activities and seminars. Children are assisted with career planning and part-time employment. Necessary services to assist with educational goals may be funded through LINKS. Young adults between the ages 18 and 21 may rem